by Lesley McLaren
You know it's mild when you have to cut the lawn in February and March. Although "clover and dandelion patch" would be a more accurate description of what passes as a lawn in my garden. But that tramontane did blow very cold yesterday, and some recent rain has left a reminder of winter on the top of Néoulous, making a striking contrast with early nectarine blossom.
You know it's mild when you have to cut the lawn in February and March. Although "clover and dandelion patch" would be a more accurate description of what passes as a lawn in my garden. But that tramontane did blow very cold yesterday, and some recent rain has left a reminder of winter on the top of Néoulous, making a striking contrast with early nectarine blossom.
Walking in this same area a few days ago, I was skirting a copse when I heard a woodpecker drumming. Then it started laughing, which confirmed it was a Green - not Great Spotted. That was no surprise because I usually hear one on these walks. But it was soon answered by another one in the same copse. A breeding pair perhaps? And then a third, a little further away and somewhere behind me. I stopped and waited because the calls were getting louder - the birds were approaching. Green Woodpeckers seem exceptionally shy and I very rarely see one, but there was a good chance that day because the trees weren't in leaf yet. And, sure enough, after a couple of minutes I did glimpse both birds. I stood there for several minutes watching and recording them on my brand new, very clever mobile phone. This would be great for our birdsong page - so much better than the one already up there!
Later, at home, I excitedly uploaded the recording onto my computer - only to find I'd been pointing the microphone at my stomach. Clearly this operator is a lot less smart than her phone! A missed opportunity that may never repeat itself, but such is life.
In other news, the spring migration has started. The local bird group (GOR) is back at the hillock at Canet St Nazaire and this last Saturday alone counted a staggering 2,853 mistle thrushes and 1,888 common cranes. Kites, marsh harriers and short-toed eagles are also beginning to pass through - in smaller numbers. On www.migraction.net (which records the GOR's sightings) I see there have also been a few swallows (including a red rumped one) and house martins. As usual there's always more about when a medium strength tramontane is blowing. So when it warms up again a little more - but before those tiger mosquitoes emerge again - I shall have to go and see what's about. If the Great Spotted Cuckoos return I'd like to try and record their peculiar call this year - and must remember to point my phone in the right direction.
Later, at home, I excitedly uploaded the recording onto my computer - only to find I'd been pointing the microphone at my stomach. Clearly this operator is a lot less smart than her phone! A missed opportunity that may never repeat itself, but such is life.
In other news, the spring migration has started. The local bird group (GOR) is back at the hillock at Canet St Nazaire and this last Saturday alone counted a staggering 2,853 mistle thrushes and 1,888 common cranes. Kites, marsh harriers and short-toed eagles are also beginning to pass through - in smaller numbers. On www.migraction.net (which records the GOR's sightings) I see there have also been a few swallows (including a red rumped one) and house martins. As usual there's always more about when a medium strength tramontane is blowing. So when it warms up again a little more - but before those tiger mosquitoes emerge again - I shall have to go and see what's about. If the Great Spotted Cuckoos return I'd like to try and record their peculiar call this year - and must remember to point my phone in the right direction.
